Today we’d like to introduce you to Jim Morrison.
Jim, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I moved to the area from Orange County at age 17 to go to the University of San Diego. During my sophomore year in college, I needed a job and was introduced to the insurance industry. When I graduated college in 1991 there was a recession with very few job opportunities so I stayed in the business. I ended up working at that firm for 13 years. In August 2002 I went out on my own and opened Morrison Insurance Services.
We are now one of the largest independent firms in San Diego. I am passionate about the industry and have several designations. In addition, I am the state Legislative Chair for the California Association of Health Underwriters (CAHU), our industry association. In my free time, I love to travel, play golf, go boating, and spending time with my wife and three kids.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has not always been a smooth road. The capital to start the business and keep it running was more than anticipated. Then the financial crash happened in 2007 and it was painful watching our clients shrink or go out of business. This was followed in 2010 with the implementation of the Affordable Care Act which completely reshaped our business. Through it all, we stayed committed to our strategy and have grown each year. This was only possible by having a great dedicated team, loyal clients and a strong group of referral partners.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Morrison Insurance Services – what should we know?
We are insurance brokers that specialize in employee benefits. Most people do not like or understand insurance. We make it easier for them. That means we set up, manage, and service benefit programs for companies. This will include a discussion on the goals of the employer, shopping the plans for the most cost-effective way to meet those goals, the implementation to the employees, and the day to day service of the plans such as answering questions, fixing problems, and adding or terminating employees.
We have won a number of awards including being one of the fasted growing companies in San Diego six times, making the Inc 5000 twice, and other awards like Professional Service Firm of the Year by the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce. We differentiate ourselves by offering the best in service, the latest in technology, simplifying compliance, and staying informed about the latest legislative issues that may affect our clients. We also offer a number of complementary tools and services for our clients to use.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
There are a number of people that deserve credit. First and foremost my wife who supported me through the set up of the new company and to this day.
Our families, both hers and mine, were extremely supportive. Another key element was my first employee, Kim Neisch. She helped forge the way and is still with us today. Of course, none of this would have been possible without our clients. They are amazing.
Contact Info:
- Address: 6096 Innovation Way Carlsbad, CA 92009
- Website: www.MISbenefits.com
- Phone: 760-438-9311
Image Credit:
Niki, Charley Hoffman, Jay Wesley, Lee Ann Pace, Brittany Lang, Stephanie Berger
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